Termites are wood destroying insects common in most areas of
Oklahoma. They cause millions of dollars of damage annually. Subterranean
termites live in the soil and are found throughout the state. The probability that
termites will attack wooden structures within 10 to 20 years of being built is
greater than 70% in Oklahoma.

Typically, the buyer
pays for the initial pest inspection. The seller usually pays for any
termite treatment; however, this needs to be stated specifically in the
contract.

Most lenders will require a termite inspection before approving a
loan. Here are some tips for getting the
most out of a termite inspection:

Regardless
if the Seller has had the house treated or inspected recently, get your own inspection. Use an established company and check
references.

If
the house already is under contract, call the pest-control company and get
the pest history.

Arrange
to accompany the inspector and make notes about any possible problems and
inaccessible areas that weren't inspected.

During
the general inspection take note of any leaks or moisture problems and
make sure your termite inspector checks them out thoroughly.

Make
sure the inspector can get under a house built on piers to check joists,
supports and interior piers for signs of termites.

If
there's an area of specific concern, work with the sellers on removing
obstacles so that it can be more thoroughly checked.

If
there is evidence of prior infestation, the buyer should ask the seller to
certify that the house has been treated by a licensed pest control
operator and that the infestation has been eliminated and all structural
repairs were done properly.

Decide whether you want to continue with the seller's pest
control company, or hire your own. The seller's company may be willing to
let you assume the annual renewal payments without paying the cost of a
new treatment. But a new company will want to install its own treatment
system to put the house under contract.